What if AI could run your trade compliance program like Johnny Five brought to life? While AI is transforming compliance with speed and efficiency, it falls short where it matters most: accountability, judgment, and real-world decision-making. This blog explores why AI is a powerful tool, but not a replacement, for human expertise in managing compliance risk.
It feels like we’re living in a never-ending cycle of “Breaking News” alerts when it comes to IEEPA tariffs, and now Section 122 headlines have joined the party. After SCOTUS ruled the IEEPA tariffs unlawful, the big unanswered question has been refunds for importers. Now the Court of International Trade has ordered CBP to issue them, but CBP says it needs new ACE functionality first. Here’s what importers should be doing now to prepare.
Most of us would never think that export compliance would have anything to do with "the world's leading sports education brand," yet IMG Academy recently settled for $1,720,000 to resolve 89 violations of OFAC counternarcotics sanctions. Between 2019 and 2025, IMG accepted tuition payments from 2 individuals designated under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act with zero due diligence performed. Academic institutions are not immune to sanctions risk, and this case proves it.
Your customs bond is your financial handshake with the U.S. Government, and if it's wrong, your cargo stops and your supply chain is halted. With insufficient bonds reaching 27,479 in fiscal 2025 and a combined value soaring to almost $3.6 billion, this is not something you can ignore until CBP sends you a demand letter. Let's break down what a customs bond really is and what to do if your bond is deemed insufficient.
The Supreme Court has issued its long-awaited decision on President Trump’s use of IEEPA to impose tariffs and in a 6–3 ruling, the Court held that the statute does not authorize tariffs during peacetime emergencies. The opinion leans heavily on constitutional separation of powers and the major questions doctrine, reinforcing that tariff authority rests with Congress. While the decision could carry significant financial consequences for importers, the Court did not rule on whether refunds will be required. Here’s what the ruling means and what questions still remain.
Just last week I was reminded of an experience I had at a previous employer when we received a frantic call about an Emergency Action Notification (EAN) from U.S. Customs & Border Protection. The EAN stated that a shipment was held due to invasive species being found — and the only options were to Treat the shipment (fumigate), re-export, or destroy the shipment. Shipments with infestations or even evidence of pests can be costly and disrupt your imports. So as an importer, how do you respond to an Emergency Action Notification?
Having an EAR99 export classification is usually seen as favorable and often allows for No License Required (NLR) exports. But when distributors won’t share end-use or end-user information, exporters can still be exposed to risk. If you know your items will be resold, due diligence means making sure your company is not enabling a violation of export regulations. This article looks at how the EAR defines “support” and why gaps in due diligence can create real compliance issues.
Paper checks for CBP refunds are on their way out. Starting February 6, 2026, all refunds will be issued electronically through the ACH Refund program, making the process faster and more secure. If you’re not already enrolled, now is the time to set up your ACE Portal account and complete the ACH Refund application. Electronic refunds mean no lost checks, quicker access to funds, and more tools at your fingertips through ACE. Don’t wait! Ensure your account is ready before the new rule takes effect.
EAPA enforcement is on the rise, and U.S. importers may be more exposed than they realize. Allegations can come from the public, competitors, or trade partners and once CBP investigates, penalties can be severe. This blog breaks down how EAPA works, common misconceptions importers rely on, and real enforcement cases resulting in millions of dollars in unpaid duties. Learn how a strong compliance program can help you avoid becoming the next enforcement target.
Export regulations require companies to screen all parties involved in a transaction—but knowing how to do that effectively isn’t always straightforward. Denied party screening applies not only to defense items, but also to dual-use and even EAR99 items, regardless of transaction value. This article explores practical screening challenges and introduces a cost-effective approach designed for everyday exporters.
